New Feature! This Week's Horoscope! 
Scroll Down 

"The quieter you become, the more you are able to hear." -Rumi

Meet Hulk!🐱

Scroll Down For Pet Of The Week!

Western Massachusetts welcomed a new era of leadership as officials took their oaths of office on January 6, 2026, marking historic moments in local politics.

In Northampton, Mayor Gina-Louise Sciarra began her second term after a tight race, emphasizing unity and the urgent need to address community voices in city government.

Her priorities include advancing the delayed Picture Main Street downtown redesign, backed by $26 million in state and federal funding.

Springfield witnessed a milestone as Tracye Whitfield was unanimously elected City Council president, making her the city’s first Black woman in that role.

She was joined by Jose Delgado, elected vice president.

The significance of Whitfield’s election was underscored by speeches from Lawrence Akers, Springfield’s first Black police superintendent, and Dr. Sonia Dinnall, the city’s groundbreaking schools chief.

Whitfield launched a new councilor training program and announced special committees to address Springfield’s budget, development, and procurement.

New councilors Justin Hurst and Gerry Martin were sworn in, as nearby cities also inaugurated their mayors.

Massachusetts officials are suing to recover $31,438 in vacation pay mistakenly given to LaMar Cook, a former deputy director in Governor Maura Healey’s Western Massachusetts office, now facing serious drug charges.

Cook was terminated for cause in October 2024, but still received payment for 530 hours of unused vacation—a benefit state law blocks for employees fired for cause.

After learning of the error, officials tried reversing payments but were unable to reclaim the funds.

Cook, who earned over $115,000 annually, is also charged with cocaine trafficking after authorities seized 21 kilograms of cocaine intended for delivery to him in Springfield.

He pleaded not guilty and remains out on bail after surrendering his passport.

The case has sparked political controversy, with Republican figures criticizing the Healey administration for the payroll misstep and the subsequent lawsuit costs to taxpayers.

The criminal proceedings against Cook are ongoing in Hampden County court.

Chicopee Police Chief Patrick J. Major officially retired on January 5, 2026, closing a remarkable 34-year chapter of public service.  

His journey, beginning as a reserve officer in 1992, saw him rise through the ranks—shaped by military discipline from two decades with the U.S. Air Force and Massachusetts Air National Guard.  

Major modernized the department, introducing body cameras, a drone program, and a Real Time Information Center, all aimed at increasing transparency and efficiency.  

Faced with staffing shortages, he worked closely with city officials to improve officer retention and morale.  

Community engagement was at the heart of his leadership, with programs and events that built lasting trust between police and Chicopee residents.  

Mayor John L. Vieau praised Major’s steady, professional approach, calling him a friend to both the city and fellow officers.  

As Major enters retirement, he leaves a department stronger, better equipped, and deeply rooted in community values.

The 413 Insider Newsletter offers a unique opportunity to connect your business with an active and loyal audience throughout the 413 area code.

This trusted platform highlights local events, businesses, and cultural news, ensuring your advertisements reach community members who care about what’s happening nearby.

By advertising here, you gain direct access to readers eager for the best new offerings and experiences in their region.

Our hyper-local focus means your message stands out to residents seeking trusted, relevant recommendations.

Advertisers benefit from personalized ad design, strategic placement, and a pricing model built for both small businesses and larger organizations.

This is a cost-effective, impactful solution for anyone aiming to boost their brand recognition and strengthen ties within the Western Massachusetts community.

Your Weekly Horoscope: January 12–19, 2026

This week’s celestial energies invite introspection and fresh opportunity for all zodiac signs.

Aries finds career momentum and a spark in romance, but careful planning tempers impulsiveness.

Taurus benefits from grounding energy—trust stability and nurture relationships in work and love.

Gemini thrives on lively communication and networking, with new connections on both professional and personal fronts.

Cancer’s week centers on emotional security; focus on self-care and meaningful conversations with loved ones.

Leo radiates confidence—lead at work, savor playfulness in romance, and balance joyful spending with responsibility.

Every sign can harness the week’s unique blend of passion and practicality to make real progress on personal goals.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration 🇺🇸🎤🎶 Where: MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street, Springfield, MA When: Monday 01/19/26, 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM EDT (doors open 12:30 PM) Why Go: Major community event honoring Dr. King's legacy with 800+ youth/adult performers in spoken word, dance, music, and choral presentations—featuring MLK Charter School, Community Music School of Springfield, Springfield CommUnity Chorale, and more. Free and open to all ages 25-80 for inspiration and unity. Contact Info: https://www.mlkjrfamilyservices.org/event/2755/

String Queens Concert 🎻 Where: Hope Center for the Arts, 1350 Main Street (or Bridge Street location), Springfield, MA When: Friday 01/16/26, Evening (time TBD, typically 7:00–9:00 PM) Why Go: Enjoy the dynamic all-female string trio (violin, cello, viola) delivering classical, pop, and world music—elegant live performance blending sophistication and energy for adults 25-80. Contact Info: https://www.masslive.com/entertainment/ (check for updates)

Rock Voices Concert 🎤 Where: Academy of Music Theatre, 274 Main Street, Northampton, MA When: Saturday 01/17/26 or similar weekend (check schedule; recurring series) Why Go: Community rock choir performs high-energy hits—uplifting, participatory live music in a historic Pioneer Valley theater, great for music lovers of all ages. Contact Info: https://aomtheatre.com/event-calendar/

Stitch 'n Flix Movie Night 🎥🧶 Where: Academy of Music Theatre or local venue, Northampton, MA When: Sunday 01/18/26, Afternoon (e.g., 2:00 PM) Why Go: Relaxed film screening (rotating classics) while crafting/knitting—casual, social event blending cinema and creativity for ages 25-80. Contact Info: https://aomtheatre.com/

MLK Day Community Programs & Exhibits 🖼️ Where: Springfield Museums, 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA When: Monday 01/19/26, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM EDT Why Go: Special exhibits, talks, or activities tied to MLK themes—educational and reflective cultural experience honoring civil rights history for thoughtful adults. Contact Info: https://springfieldmuseums.org/programs/month/

Open Mic or Jazz Night 🎷 Where: The Parlor Room or Iron Horse Music Hall, Northampton, MA When: Tuesday 01/13/26 or Tuesday 01/20/26, Evening ~7:00 PM Why Go: Weekly live music opportunity—local jazz, folk, or open mic sets—intimate venue for enjoying emerging talent or performing in the Pioneer Valley. Contact Info: https://parlorroom.org/calendar or https://www.ironhorsemusic.com/

Recurring Museum & Cultural Visits 🏛️ Where: Springfield Museums (Springfield), Norman Rockwell Museum (Stockbridge), or Clark Art Institute (Williamstown) When: Daily 01/13/26 – 01/20/26, Standard hours (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM typical) Why Go: Explore permanent collections, winter exhibits, or special talks—quiet, enriching cultural outings for adults 25-80 seeking art, history, and inspiration. Contact Info: springfieldmuseums.org, nrm.org, or clarkart.edu

George C. Ewing House, 256 Dwight Street, Holyoke

This elegant three-story brick Italianate residence, featuring a graceful wrap-around porch, was built for George Clinton Ewing, a key figure in Holyoke’s early growth.

Set amid snowy streets, the home originally stood on Dwight Street before it was relocated to 56 Clinton Avenue around 1900.

Back in the 1870s, this neighborhood was famously known as Ewingville, reflecting the lasting impact of the Ewing family in the city’s history.

Between 1885 and 1899, the residence stood as a striking example of Holyoke’s architectural heritage and transformation during that period.

Frankie’s Pizza in Longmeadow is a beloved spot for creative, high-quality pies that locals say are worth the drive.

Located at 809 Maple Road, the shop is known for specialty pizzas that push boundaries well beyond the usual cheese and pepperoni.

From classics like the Margarita Pizza with fresh mozzarella and basil, to bold inventions like the Hot Honey Pizza drizzled with Mike’s Hot Honey, and even the decadent Fry Pizza topped with fried chicken and fries, the menu is a celebration of flavor at an affordable $15.99.

Vegetarians, meat-lovers, and fans of adventurous eats alike will find plenty to love, whether craving the familiar or something entirely new.

Perfect for families, dates, or solo treats, Frankie’s delivers both comfort and invention.

Next time you’re in Longmeadow, skip the chains and discover why Frankie’s Pizza is a true local gem.

Meet Hulk, a joyful and playful pup with a gigantic personality and an infectious smile.

This energetic boy loves being outdoors, whether he’s running in the yard, heading out for a walk, or playing fetch with his favorite toys.

Hulk absolutely thrives on attention and greets everyone with a wagging tail and playful spirit, always eager to make new friends.

He’s highly food-motivated and would flourish as the beloved only dog in a single-pet home, especially with adults or teens.

This loyal companion is seeking a family ready to match his energy and shower him with affection.

You can meet Hulk in person at the shelter Tuesday through Saturday, 12:30–3:00pm, or inquire about adoption holds by phone or email.

All adoption fees cover medical care, vaccinations, microchipping, and a free vet exam, ensuring Hulk starts his new chapter healthy and happy.

Word of the Week: Effulgent

Definition: Adjective. Shining with a brilliant, radiant glow—like sunlight pouring through clouds after a storm or a smile so warm and bright it lights up the whole room. It describes something that radiates intense, beautiful light, both literally and figuratively.

Example Sentence: On this crisp January afternoon, the freshly fallen snow was effulgent under the low winter sun, turning the backyard into a sparkling sea of diamonds.

Origin: From the Latin effulgēre (“to shine forth” or “flash out”), entering English in the 1700s. It’s a slightly rarer, more poetic cousin to words like radiant or resplendent—perfect for those extra-glowy moments!

Here’s to noticing (and feeling) a little effulgent beauty in these quiet January days! ✨ What’s shining brightly in your world right now?